Horse-Shoe Robinson: A Tale of the Tory Ascendency

"Horse-Shoe Robinson: A Tale of the Tory Ascendency" by John Pendleton Kennedy is a historical novel written in the early 19th century. The book is set during the American Revolutionary War and explores the complex interactions between settlers, rebels, and loyalists in South Carolina, focusing on the figure of Horse-Shoe Robinson, a sturdy and resourceful character who embodies the spirit of the time. The narrative delves into adventure and personal relationships against the backdrop of political turmoil. The opening of the narrative introduces readers to the backdrop of South Carolina’s landscape, particularly its mountainous regions, detailing the journey of a traveler on horseback but later shifts to highlight a chance encounter with a boy who has fallen off his horse. This meeting sets the stage for the introduction of Horse-Shoe Robinson, an older gentleman characterized by his physical presence and kind demeanor, who becomes a figure of trust and competence in the unfolding events. As he tends to the injured boy, a larger community of characters emerges, suggesting themes of camaraderie and the struggles faced during a time of conflict, hinting at the memories and stories that will gradually unfold as the narrative progresses. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

John Pendleton Kennedy was an American novelist, lawyer and Whig politician who served as United States Secretary of the Navy from July 26, 1852, to March 4, 1853, during the administration of President Millard Fillmore, and as a U.S. Representative from Maryland's 4th congressional district, during which he encouraged the United States government's study, adoption and implementation of the telegraph. A lawyer who became a lobbyist for and director of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Kennedy also served several terms in the Maryland General Assembly and became its Speaker in 1847.